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Research Article Open access CC BY 4.0

Serotonin Syndrome after Initiation of Pregabalin on a Stable Regimen of Antidepressant Medication

Lena Jellestad, Lea Stocker, Josef Jenewein, Soenke Boettger

International Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Case Reports · pp. 1–4 · Published 23 Aug 2016

10.9734/IJMPCR/2016/28356

Abstract

Aims: Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening drug interaction caused by excess serotonin concentration in the central nervous system and/or peripheral nervous system leading to cognitive, autonomic and somatic effects ranging from barely perceptible to fatal. A number of drugs and drug interactions cause serotonin syndrome, however, the exact mechanisms often remain elusive. Presentation of Case: In the following case, serotonin syndrome was caused by the addition of pregabalin in a patient with recurrent major depressive disorder and concurrent medication with paroxetine and trazodone. Discussion: This case illustrates the risk of polypsychopharmacology leading to an increased vulnerability towards serotonin syndrome. Conclusion: Pregabalin with its serotonergic action has a liability to cause serotonin syndrome. This should be especially kept in mind in patients with polypsychopharmacology.

Serotonin syndrome pregabalin paroxetine trazodone

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